A storefront door is an important part of any business, as it not only provides security for the building, but also makes a strong first impression on customers. However, like any piece of equipment, storefront doors can experience wear and tear over time and may require repairs. These can also be larger in scale as a result from a human accident or catastrophic weather conditions. Assessing the damage is always the first step. Here are a few things to look for when assessing damage and what commercial door repair options are available for you.
Glass Door Cracks Threaten Your Business’ Security
Small cracks in the glass door may be repairable, but larger cracks or multiple cracks may indicate the need for a replacement. Cracks in a storefront glass door can vary in size and severity and can be caused by a variety of factors such as impact, weather, or pressure on the glass. When assessing the damage, it’s important to consider the size and location of the crack. Small cracks, such as those caused by impact from a small object, can often be repaired using a resin injection process. This process involves injecting a clear resin into the crack, which hardens and bonds the glass together. This type of repair is relatively quick and can be done on-site, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
Larger cracks or multiple cracks may indicate the need for a replacement. These types of cracks can weaken the structural integrity of the glass door, making it more likely to break or shatter in the future. Additionally, these types of cracks may be difficult or impossible to repair and the glass may need to be replaced. It’s also important to consider the location of the crack. If the crack is located near the edge of the glass, it may be more difficult to repair and may require replacement. Also, if the crack is on the door handle or lock area, it may compromise the security of the building and the door should be replaced as soon as possible.
Fogging/Cloudiness Leads to An Unsightly Storefront Door
Cloudiness or fogging in the glass can be caused by broken seals, which can usually be repaired. However, if the cloudiness is widespread, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire door. Cloudiness or fogging in a storefront glass door can be caused by broken seals, which can usually be repaired. The seals around the door are designed to keep moisture and air from getting inside the door and between the panes of glass. Unfortunately, over time the seals can fail. When this happens, the moisture inside the door can condense, creating a cloudy or foggy appearance.
If the cloudiness is limited to a small area of the glass, it can often be repaired by resealing the door. This involves removing the old sealant and replacing it with new. This will restore the integrity of the seal and prevent further moisture from entering the door. However, if the cloudiness is widespread, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire door. The seals around the entire door may be compromised and it would be more efficient to install a new door with new seals.
Wear and Tear Leads to Difficulty Opening/Closing
If a business’ glass door is difficult to open or close, it could be a sign of a problem with the hardware or the frame. This type of damage may require repairs or replacement of the hardware. One common cause of difficulty opening or closing a glass door is a problem with the hinges. Hinges can become loose or worn over time, making it difficult to open or close the door. A professional technician or contractor can repair or replace the hinges, which should improve the door’s operation.
Another cause can be the door closer, a device that helps to close the door automatically. If the door closer is not adjusted properly, it can make it difficult to open or close the door. A professional technician can adjust the closer, and if it is damaged it can be repaired or replaced. Alignment issues can also cause difficulty opening or closing a glass door. If the door is not aligned properly, it can cause friction and make it hard to open or close. A professional technician can adjust the alignment of the door and fix any issues with the frame.
The Door Can Be Too Old to Justify Further Repair
The age of a commercial glass door should also be considered when determining whether a repair or replacement is necessary. Over time, a businesses’ glass door will experience regular wear and tear such as scratches, cracks, and other types of damage. Over time the seals and hardware may start to degrade. This would make the door more difficult to open or close, or even compromise the security of the building. If the door is relatively new and has only minor damage, a repair may be the best option. However, if the door is old and showing significant signs of wear and tear, it may be more cost-effective to replace it.
Security Should Be at the Forefront of Your Decisions
Security is an important consideration when assessing the damage of a store’s glass door. This should be key to determining whether a repair or replacement is necessary. A damaged or broken glass door can put the security of the building at risk. For example, if the lock or handle is damaged, it may be difficult or impossible to secure the building, making it vulnerable to break-ins. In this case, it would be necessary to repair or replace the lock or handle as soon as possible. If the door is cracked or otherwise damaged, it may be easier for someone to break in. In this case, it may be necessary to replace the door with a more secure one.
Contact a Provider a Proper Assessment
It’s important to keep in mind that a professional assessment by a qualified technician or contractor will give you a more accurate assessment of the damage and the best course of action. They can inspect the door and give you an estimate for the cost of repair or replacement.